Many NFL teams are already playing out the string. With nothing to play for (except maybe a shot at Trevor Lawrence), you'd almost expect them to pack it in and wait for 2021.
But if you looked at the games this weekend, you didn't see that. They're still doing everything they can to win, and your fantasy team should be no different.
If you're fighting for a playoff spot, you don't need any motivation to make this coming week count (assuming your playoffs start in week 15). You know what's at stake. But what if you've already been eliminated? What's the point?
Well, the point is that you signed up to play in the league. You didn't sign up to play until you got bored, or until you couldn't make the playoffs, or until your fortunes looked better in another league. As long as there are games on the schedule, you have a responsibility to play them to the best of your ability.
Some NFL teams have incentive to lose, and they're still trying. The Jaguars almost beat the Vikings, when winning would only hurt their draft position. And the Jets, well, you know. I really think they were trying to win. And they came within a few seconds of doing just that. If those teams are giving it their all, you should, too.
Sure, the players have millions of reasons why they should keep playing hard. But you might have a few as well. Some leagues offer payouts for the highest weekly score. It might not amount to much, but it's better than nothing. And you might be able to accomplish the next best thing to making the playoffs: Keeping a buddy out.
Don't underestimate the power of that incentive. If you're the reason your friend misses the playoffs, you've earned an entire offseason of trash talk. You've won bragging rights over somebody, and they have no comeback until September. That privilege could last longer than the league winnings.
Even if you don't know the player you beat, you can feel good knowing you ruined someone's day. Misery loves company, and that goes double in fantasy football. You can sit back and smile, imagining someone frantically checking the scores and watching their playoff hopes dwindle and die. Isn't that a fun way to spend a Sunday? I get a warm, fuzzy feeling just thinking about it.
Not to mention that other teams might be depending on your victory to help their own fortunes. Don't you owe the league some competition for your opponent? Don't let a playoff spot be determined because you couldn't muster up the pride to field your best lineup. Why should someone back into the playoffs because you couldn't be bothered anymore?
If none of those reasons are compelling enough, do it for yourself. Why rob yourself of even one week of fantasy football? Work the waiver wire, start your best players and try to get a W. It will be over soon enough for everyone, and then we have long way to another week 1. There are only so many chances to play this game. Enjoy it while you can.
I don't like it when I'm out of the running, but I do admit there's a strange appeal to playing without any pressure. It's the same if you've earned a bye. Losing costs nothing, and winning always feels good. No matter what's at stake, I hope you find the enthusiasm to give it your all this coming week. Whether it affects the playoffs or not, I hope you finish your regular season with a win. Good luck this week.
How do you stay motivated if you're out of it? Does your league offer any incentive to keep trying your best, or do teams give up at the end? Share your thoughts below.
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